This is a seaweed and brings with it the nutritional properties of the sea
from which it is harvested. For this reason it is high in valuable
minerals but also prone to marine pollution, so care should be taken in
sourcing it. Kelp is
highly nutritious, making it a valuable dietary supplement. It is
emollient and usable as a poultice. It is rich specifically in potassium
and iodine. Calcified seaweed makes a very good land top-dressing in place
of chemical fertilizers, providing humus and mineral nutrients in a
valuable ‘slow release’ balance. It is of particular use in goitrous
conditions or in areas of the country known to be short in iodine.

Notes: Check out one of the commercial
supplements containing kelp, the "Source".